A Wake in the West returns to Westport Town Hall after 20 years
SAINT Patrick’s Drama Group, Westport, is bringing one of Ireland’s most beloved comedies back to the stage this November with a revival of A Wake in the West, by the late Michael Joe Ginnelly.
The much-loved play will run for three nights only: Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, November 19, 20 and 21, at Westport Town Hall Theatre.
This production holds special significance for the group. Not only does it mark 20 years since St. Patrick’s Drama Group first staged the play in 2005, it also follows the passing of its playwright, Michael Joe Ginnelly, the gifted Mulranny native who sadly passed away earlier this year.
The revival also coincides with the group’s 60th anniversary, making it a heartfelt celebration of both local theatre and the enduring legacy of one of Mayo’s most popular storytellers.
When A Wake in the West first hit the stage in Westport two decades ago, few could have predicted the phenomenal response it would receive. Audiences packed the theatre night after night, prompting the group to add extra performances to meet demand.
The play’s success soon spread beyond Mayo, with sold-out shows at the Royal Theatre in Castlebar, and later international performances in Wembley, London, and even the Irish American Centre in Chicago - where, in a now-famous anecdote, it outsold Christy Moore!
Since then, A Wake in the West has become a firm favourite among amateur drama and community theatre groups across Ireland, the UK, America, and even Canada. Its universal humour, colourful characters, and authentic portrayal of Irish life have cemented its status as one of the great modern Irish comedies.
Set in a small fishing village in the west of Ireland during the 1970s, the play follows the uproar that ensues when Tom Healy’s dying wish to be cremated and have his ashes scattered at sea sends his family and neighbours into chaos. Between his daughter Mary’s exasperation, his son Martin’s return from America, and the well-intentioned but disastrous involvement of locals like Barney, Rose Davitt, and the village priest, the wake becomes a riot of laughter, misunderstandings, and heart.
This year’s revival is directed by Tom Navin, with Pat Gibbons as Tom Healy, Ciarán MacSuibhne as Dr. John, Regina McCormack as Mary, Edwina Rushe as Joan, Nuala Currid as Margaret, Mairéad Ryan as Rose, Cian McNamara as Martin, Michael Hughes as Barney, and Lennie Grimes as Fr. Cassidy.
In a touching nod to the original 2005 production, Pat Gibbons, Regina McCormack, Nuala Currid, Mairéad Ryan and Lennie Grimes return to reprise the same roles they played 20 years ago.
Michael Hughes, who first brought the script for A Wake in the West to the group, now takes on the role of Barney, which was originally performed by the late Patsy Staunton of Mill Street. The part of Dr. John was first played by the late Martin Vahey of Carrabaun, and the play was originally directed by the late Martin Curry of James Street.
“These members are fondly remembered by everyone in the group,” said Michael Hughes. “They remain a cherished part of the St. Patrick’s Drama Group family, and we carry their memory with us as we bring this play back to the stage.
“This revival is also dedicated to the late Michael Joe Ginnelly, whose humour, heart, and wonderful storytelling gave us A Wake in the West. His legacy continues to bring laughter and joy to audiences near and far, and it’s an honour to perform his work once again here where it all began.”
Performances take place at Westport Town Hall Theatre from Wednesday to Friday, November 19 to 21. Curtain up nightly at 8 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased on westporttheatre.com or call (098) 28459.